Asperger’s Syndrome Therapy in Hurst, TX

What Is Asperger’s Syndrome?

The term Asperger’s syndrome was first created by Hans Asperger, who in 1944 described the condition as autistic
psychopathy. Sometimes nicknamed little professor syndrome, Asperger’s is an outdated diagnosis for a subtype of
autism disorder commonly known as high-functioning autism. The diagnosis was made when patients showed extreme
difficulty navigating social situations, and who were also proficient in certain intellectual disciplines or topics.

In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association concluded that there was no reason that Asperger’s syndrome and
autistic disorder should be separate diagnoses. Patients who would have been diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome
prior to 2013 are now diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Asperger’s was occasionally misdiagnosed as ADHD due
to similarities between the two disabilities, such as repetitive body movements, difficulty staying organized, and
intense interest in specific topics.

Treatment for Asperger’s Syndrome

As Asperger's syndrome is an outdated term for high-functioning autism, the treatments for both Asperger's and
autism are the same. Specific therapy options have been shown to help autistic individuals interact with the world
and improve their social skills. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
has proven very helpful in teaching autistic people how to cope with social
stressors. CBT also teaches social interaction rules and tips, which can be useful
to almost anyone.

A psychiatric healthcare provider may also be able to secure accommodations for an autistic person to help them
individuals succeed in a school or work environment. Accommodations may include a 504 plan or IEP for school, or
being provided with a quiet, solitary environment at work. Many autistic people develop anxiety and depression from
the stress of navigating society, so developing coping and self-care mechanisms earlier in life can help offset
this. Other treatments for this anxiety and depression may include talk therapy and medications like anxiolytics and
antidepressants.

Autistic children have trouble emulating social skills from their peers, so they may need extra help learning these
skills. Tips that parents, caretakers, and friends might use to help autistic people of any age improve their social
skills include:

Providing examples of common colloquial phrases or figures of speech if they ask for help

Trying to provide them with specific instructions, and giving them praise when they do well

Understanding their need to stim or disengage from a social situation

Respecting their need to adhere to schedules

Encouraging them to ask questions if they are confused about expressions or directions